How to export a dog to France?

How to export a dog to France? - briefly

To export a dog to France, you must ensure your pet meets the necessary health and vaccination requirements. This includes obtaining an EU pet passport or Animal Health Certificate, microchipping, and updating rabies vaccinations. Additionally, you may need to complete a tapeworm treatment within 1-5 days before entering France.

How to export a dog to France? - in detail

Exporting a dog to France involves several steps, including health checks, vaccinations, microchipping, and obtaining necessary documents. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

1. Microchipping: Ensure your dog is microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip. This is a standard requirement for pet travel within the European Union. The microchip must be implanted before or at the same time as the rabies vaccination.

2. Rabies Vaccination: Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entering France. Make sure to keep a record of this vaccination, as it will be required for the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) document.

3. Blood Test: After the rabies vaccination, your dog needs to have a blood test to check the antibody levels. This test must be done at least 30 days after the vaccination and at least three months before entering France. The results of this test must show that the vaccine was successful.

4. Tapeworm Treatment: Your dog must be treated for tapeworms between 24 and 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before entering France. This treatment should be administered by a licensed veterinarian, who will record it in your pet's health certificate.

5. Health Certificate: Obtain an official health certificate (Annex IV for EU countries) issued by a licensed veterinarian. This certificate must accompany your dog at all times during travel and should be dated no more than 10 days before the date of travel to France.

6. Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate: Depending on whether you are traveling from an EU country or a non-EU country, you may need either a pet passport or an animal health certificate. A pet passport is valid for the lifetime of your dog and can be used for multiple entries into France. An animal health certificate is valid for 10 days after issue for entry into France and four months for onward travel within the EU.

7. Travel Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including proof of rabies vaccination, blood test results, tapeworm treatment record, and the health certificate or pet passport. Keep these documents with you during travel to present upon request by French customs officials.

8. Pet-Friendly Transport: Choose a pet-friendly means of transportation for your dog's journey to France. This could include traveling by car, train, or airplane, depending on the distance and your personal preferences. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines provided by the transport company.

9. Accommodation in France: Arrange suitable accommodation for your dog upon arrival in France. This could be a pet-friendly hotel, vacation rental, or boarding facility. Research options in advance to ensure compatibility with your travel plans.

10. Compliance with French Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding pets in France. This includes leash requirements, areas where pets are not allowed, and any specific rules related to your dog's breed or size. Complying with these laws will ensure a smooth transition for both you and your pet.

By following these detailed steps, you can successfully export your dog to France and enjoy your time together in this beautiful country.